Mattel celebrates 35 years of American Girl with new anniversary range, book and album

Mattel is celebrating 35 years of American Girl with the reintroduction of its original historical characters: Samantha Parkington, Kirsten Larson, Molly McIntire, Felicity Merriman, Addy Walker and Josefina Montoya.

Each of the six original dolls in the 35th Anniversary Collection comes dressed in her original outfit and authentic accessories. Each doll also comes with the character’s first paperback book, with a vintage cover.

In further tribute to the brand’s roots, each set comes packaged in a retro-inspired American Girl doll box.

“For 35 years, American Girl has created powerful stories with smart, courageous heroines that have helped shape an entire generation of women,” said Jamie Cygielman, General Manager of American Girl.

“As we celebrate this major milestone, we’re thrilled to recognise the very first generation of American girls who grew up with these beloved, original characters and made them the phenomenon they are today.

“Knowing many of these women are now moms themselves, we look forward to creating special, multi-generational experiences for families via their shared love of the brand. We can’t wait to inspire and empower this next generation with even more relevant products, immersive experiences, and timeless stories.”

The anniversary is also being marked with Everything I Need to Know I Learned from American Girl, a new book featuring heartfelt and humorous advice shared by characters, as well as a new digital album, American Girl Get Up and Dance.

With American Girl’s roots in children’s publishing, this summer will see Mattel back Save the Children’s U.S. Literacy program with a gift of more than $100,000 in American Girl books. This donation brings the brand’s total commitment to more than $9 million in books and funds to the organisation.

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